Agricultural & Applied Economics

The Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics offers teaching, research and extension programs.

Teaching agribusiness, agricultural economics and environmental economics and management majors is the focus of the department’s teaching program.  Faculty train students in decision-making, communication and interpersonal skills and prepare them for dynamic careers in business and/or natural resources and the environment. In addition to classroom learning, students learn through internships with agribusiness firms, international study abroad courses and student leadership opportunities.  Graduate study leading to a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics or Environmental Economics or a Doctor of Philosophy degree is also offered. 

Research in the department focuses on areas like marketing, management, policy, economic development, and natural resource and environmental economics. Research projects focus on water use efficiency and conservation, sustainable agricultural systems, policy, trade and market analysis, animal waste and water management, and land-use planning.

Extension agricultural and applied economics faculty work closely with producers, county Extension agents, input supply and other agribusinesses, commodity organizations, state and national policy makers, lenders, and other clientele groups in the state, region, and nation.  Extension faculty provide educational programs and informational materials and conduct applied research to solve real-world problems, improve decision-making, and increase the efficiency and profitability of Georgia agriculture.

The department’s Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development brings together the research and extension aspects of the department to analyze the state’s economic problems and improve the profitability and operating efficiency of agribusinesses in Georgia.